Did this hike at the end of September. Loved the waterfalls! The views on both sides of the trail were stunning. On the North side we could see white mountain goats grazing along the ridge. So many views on this trail.

The snow was amazing. Not a long hike, really easy and the scenery was beautiful. We had fun thrashing fresh powder since we wore our snowshoes. There was a lot of traffic but some parking was still available.

I've done this trail many times, but most recently hiked yesterday (11/7/18). It was all snow covered but packed down marking a clear path. Many people went without spikes, but it did make it easier having them from Dream to Emerald where it got a little steeper. The road up to Bear Lake is icy/snow covered but doable in a 2 wheel drive if you go slow.

Parking lot is excellent. It is large and well tended. Just make sure you're taking the trail you intend to. Its easy to mistakenly take Spruce Creek Road instead Spruce Creek Road. We hiked with crampons. Probably a poor choice because the snow is deep enough to require a snowshoes or backcountry skis. We were able to make it to Lower Mohawk Lakes with boots/crampons, but we unable to hike to Mohawk Lake because the snow was waist high. We saw 10 people total on this hike.

Hiked this trail 10/26/18. If you’re looking for a nice, easy and scenic hike this is the place. Every corner you turn is picture worthy. At the time the lakes were partially frozen over. The closer you got to Emerald Lake the more slippery the trail got. I didn’t need crampons but I’m sure now you’ll need them. 10/10 hike it’s a must see.

Hiked this 3 weeks ago and needed crampons to make it to the top. There are two ways to make it to the lake. One of them requires a rock scramble; but both are a steep climb. It's beautiful country and worth hiking it in the snow.

I hiked to emerald lake on 11/1/18 and it was a snowy wonderland! I am glad I had micro spikes because it was slick in spots but with the spikes it was not a problem. I started hiking around 9:30 and only 4 couples were in front of me hiking. As I came down there were many more people. It was nice to have the Trail mostly to myself on the hike up so I could enjoy the views uninterrupted. I am not a hiker and came from sea-level the evening before and I could certainly tell my lungs were adjusting to the altitude. I did the the whole hike and 1x around bear lake in just under 2 hours.

I want on this hike on October 12th. It was definitely the end of prime hiking season. I’m glad I went with someone that was knowledgeable about the trail because the snow and wind made the trail disappear. But I was a beautiful hike. Not super challenging but beautiful views. If you hike this this time of year, prepare for all types of weather.

Unique trail, no challenging spots unless your not paying attention.....We drove up it until the last switch back (4) counting mill because there was a snow drift over the road. On snow and ice will challenge your nerves for sure.. ‘16 4runner. Nitto Terra Grapplers.

We took this hike on 10/27. Trail was well groomed but covered in packed snow. it was manageable but much easier with hiking poles. We had a big group of varying skill level (and 2 pregnant women!). We made it past the 3 lakes close to Wheeler Trail and proceeded on to Mayflower Lake. We did not opt to go on to Lower Lake and Upper Lake because apparently it was very steep, icy in several spots. We explored around Mayflower Lake and took the loop back to the start. Beautiful day and a nice hike with good views once you get to the 3 lakes and especially Mayflower Lake. The mountain close by is Mt. Helen. We started at noon and finished around 4:30 with several stops, slow pace, and lots of pictures. Temp was fine in the 50s. We had a good time!

Amazing opportunity for incredible views with not that much effort. If you have time head to Lake Haiyaha. Its well worth it. (Review for Lake Haiyaha and Emerald Lake Trail). I got to Bear Lake trailhead at 8am Sunday. Very few cars. I had the whole trail to myself pretty much. I did Emerald Lake and then on the way back turned and headed to Lake Haiyaha. I'm glad I did because it was the best part. Its steeper and harder then Bear Lake trail. At the end there are a bunch of boulders to scramble over to get to the lake. Be careful, I fell, snow is deep and make sure you know how to get back to the trail. Its not as easy as it looks. Really incredible. Wear traction. Wear traction. When I came down the whole lot was full and there was a mile long line of cars trying to get in but they were routed to the visitor center.

Awesome trail. Moderately difficult with beautiful views and nature. Hiked 10/26/18 and the trail was good. Some snow but compressed. Absolutely need spikes due to ice. Did it with a four month old baby strapped to chest. A little dodgy at parts, especially ice near the end, but on a 55 degree day it was perfect.

Beautiful hike!! Rent shoe spikes and poles at a local hiking store in town or bring a walking stick at least. Parts of this trail are SLICK ice. I’d rate this trail as moderate. I could definitely feel the elevation climb! Well worth your time. We got there at 930 on Saturday with a few parking spots left. By the time we left at noon parking lot was full/closed.

This is one of the most popular trails in Colorado and for good reason! If you go on the weekend it will be tricky to find a parking spot. This is a moderate hike with huge rewards, stunning views!! If you only have time for one hike in CO do this one or st Mary’s Glacier.

Great hike with great views! Each lake was spectacular. There is ice/snow packed in certain spots. We rented spikes and poles from a shop in Estes Park for $9 for the day...I would definitely recommend it!

Still very crowded on weekends but an easy hike with great views. Definitely wear or rent microspikes for your boots. People were slipping all throughout the hike and it will take away from your enjoyment if you don’t have them.